Intel Core i5-2500T socket: LGA 1155
The Intel Core i5-2500T uses the LGA 1155 socket. It is a 45 W quad core Sandy Bridge desktop part at 2.3 GHz with turbo to 3.3 GHz.
- Socket
- LGA 1155
- Launched
- January 2011
- Cores and threads
- 4 and 4
- Base power
- 45 W
- Codename
- Sandy Bridge
- Segment
- Desktop
- Family
- Intel Core i5
- Clocks
- 2.3 / 3.3 GHz
Intel Core i5-2500T specifications
| Cores | 4 |
|---|---|
| Threads | 4 |
| Core architecture | Sandy Bridge cores on 32 nm |
| Clocks | 2.3 GHz base, 3.3 GHz turbo |
| Cache | 6 MB Intel Smart Cache (L3) |
| Processor base power (TDP) | 45 W |
| Manufacturing process | 32 nm |
| Memory support | DDR3-1066 and 1333, two channels, up to 32 GB |
| PCI Express | 16 lanes from the CPU, PCIe 2.0 |
| Integrated graphics | Intel HD Graphics 2000 |
| Multiplier | Locked |
| Package | FCLGA1155 (37.5 × 37.5 mm) |
Motherboard and chipset compatibility
Intel Core i5-2500T needs a motherboard with a LGA 1155 socket. The table shows which chipset series accept it.
| Series | Chipsets | Support |
|---|---|---|
| 7 series | Z77, Z75, H77, B75, Q77, Q75 | Works out of the box |
| 6 series: H61, H67, P67, Z68 | Z68, P67, H67, H61 | Works out of the box |
| 6 series business: B65, Q65, Q67 | Q67, Q65, B65 | Works out of the box |
Board makers publish a CPU support list for every model. Check it for your exact board before buying. Chipset details for LGA 1155.
LGA 1155 at a glance
| Type | LGA, 1,155 contacts |
|---|---|
| Package size | 37.5 × 37.5 mm |
| Introduced | January 2011 |
| Memory | DDR3 |
| Cooler mounting holes | 75 × 75 mm |
What the Core i5-2500T is
Intel Core i5-2500T is a quad core Sandy Bridge desktop processor that Intel released in January 2011 for low power towers. It runs at 2.3 GHz base with turbo to 3.3 GHz and has no Hyper-Threading, so 4 cores give 4 threads. Cache is 6 MB Intel Smart Cache. Power is 45 W on a 32 nm process.
The 2500T keeps four cores while cutting base clocks hard. Turbo still reaches 3.3 GHz for bursty office tasks. It fits small cases where a 95 W quad would overheat.
Graphics are Intel HD Graphics 2000. The block runs office monitors at native resolution. The LGA, PGA and BGA: CPU package types explained guide places this LGA desktop part against mobile forms.
Socket and motherboard compatibility
The Core i5-2500T fits LGA 1155 in FCLGA1155 form. H61, H67, Z68 and later 7 series boards boot Sandy quads directly. Business chipsets such as B65 and Q67 also accept it.
Low height coolers cover the 45 W load in slim cases. Check case clearance before reusing a tall tower cooler. The CPU cooler compatibility by socket guide lists the shared 75 mm pattern.
Memory, PCIe and cooling
Memory support is DDR3-1066 and 1333, two channels, up to 32 GB. The highest official speed is 1333 MT/s. ECC is not supported.
PCI Express is 16 lanes from the CPU at PCIe 2.0. Most 2500T systems use onboard video and keep the slot free for network or storage cards.
Cooling uses the 75 × 75 mm desktop mount with a low profile fan. Dust filters extend service intervals in labs.
Upgrade paths
On LGA 1155 the 2500T can move to the 65 W 2500S or the 95 W 2500 for higher base clocks. The board and RAM stay. A low power dual core comparison is Intel Core i3-2120T.
A jump to a current DDR4 platform needs a new board, cooler mount check and RAM. Keep the 2500T tower for kiosk use.
Frequently asked questions
What socket does the Intel Core i5-2500T use?
It uses LGA 1155 in FCLGA1155 form.
How is the Core i5-2500T different from the i5-2500?
The 2500T is a 45 W part at 2.3 GHz base. The 2500 is a 95 W part at 3.3 GHz base.
What memory does the Core i5-2500T use?
DDR3-1066 and 1333, two channels, up to 32 GB.
Does the Core i5-2500T have Hyper-Threading?
No. Four cores give 4 threads.
Sources and verification
- Intel Core i5-2000 Series (CPU Grade, i5-2500T 2.3 to 3.3 GHz 45 W HD2000)
- Sandy Bridge i5 2500T 45W 2.3 GHz turbo 3.3 GHz (TechSpot lineup)
Facts last checked against these sources on . Page last edited on .